Wing Fest expands, moving to K of C Hall in August

Kevan Carroll (left) and Jeff Turner are organizing another Chicken Wing Cookoff this year. The event has grown and has moved from Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 to the Amherstburg K of C. Tickets are on sale at participating restaurants in Amherstburg.

By Ron Giofu

The annual Chicken Wing Fest started at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 by two Legion members, but has now outgrown the building.

Wing Fest organizers Jeff Turner and Kevan Carroll said they are sad to leave the Legion, but have formed a partnership with the Amherstburg Knights of Columbus Hall and will be presenting this year’s event there Aug. 23.

“We got too big,” said Turner. “We have more people wanting to enter it this year.”

Turner said they had to cap entries at nine this year, up one from the 2013 Chicken Wing Fest. This year’s entries include Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157, K of C Council 2110, Bob-Lo Island Beach House Restaurant, Lord Amherst Public House, Rosa’s, Kin Folks, the Artisan Grill, Meadows by the Lake and Shooters. Carroll noted Rosa’s, Bob-Lo Island Beach House and Kin Folks are new from last year.

The goal this year is to sell 300 tickets. Rick Rock and the band Back 2 Back will be performing on a temporary outside patio while British Beat 66 returns and will perform inside.

“We’re super-excited because we got the band back from last year,” said Turner. “They enjoyed themselves last year.”

Attendees will get over a pound of wings, Carroll noted, as they will be able to get one wing from each of the nine participants. Votes come from those in attendance. There will also be a 50/50 draw, door prizes and raffles.

Over $5,000 was raised at last year’s Chicken Wing Fest, added Turner. Both he and Carroll emphasized that all money raised goes back into the Amherstburg community.

“We like to give to local charities, local people in need and local non-profit organizations and let people have a good time as well,” said Turner.

Charities and organizations they plan on donating to once again this year include Amherstburg Community Services, St. Vincent de Paul Society and the #202 Royal Canadian Fort Malden Army Cadet Corps. They also help local families that are going through a tough time including those with family members ailing with a medical condition.

“Tickets are at participating restaurants. Get your tickets early. It will probably sell out,” encouraged Carroll.

Sponsors and volunteers are also welcome and those interested can contact Turner at 519-988-9772 or Carroll at 519-982-6866.